Because of the complex and strenuous nature of the event, it is of interest to examine the gender differences of triple jump biomechanics. However, only a limited number of researchers have looked at such differences in most determinants of performance. In this study of the male and female competitors at the 2017 European Athletics Indoor championships, the authors investigated approach stride characteristics and the spatiotemporal parameters of the phases of the jump. Results confirmed that approach velocity correlates significantly with jumping distance (p < .05). Gender differences also existed in parameters related to speed capabilities but not those related to technique. A significant gender and phase interaction (p < .05) difference concerning the progression of phase length distribution and the rhythmic structure of the hop, step and jump was found. Furthermore, gender differences were observed for kinematic parameters of the final two strides of the approach, percentage distribution of the hop and step, and support time for the hop. The authors recommend that female triple jumpers aim for greater approach velocity, shorter contact times for the penultimate and last approach strides and a more efficient rhythmic transition from the hop into the step in order to increase the length of the step.
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